This paper was prepared to accommodate the results of the close re-reading of Byungjin inscriptions of the Chungje Stele. By adjusting previous readings and newly deciphering some characters, updated interpretation became possible. The research re-examined the conclusion made few years ago from the analysis of Jungwon Inscription. Such efforts led to believe that the location area of the Chungje Stele was royal land, constantly from early 6th century to the end of 8th century. This was the distinct region distinguished from the typical county-prefecture system. Such outcome implies some important facts. The royal lands of Shilla were never succeeded to individuals, even when the monarchal blood was transformed to other families. In other words, royal lands belonged to the official position of ‘Shilla king', regardless of its individual heritage. This kind of system was already established from the early days when Shilla was structuring its local administration. The existence of ‘royal land' from the early 6th century is a significant factor when it comes to studying the characteristics of Shilla's ruling structure.

This paper was prepared to accommodate the results of the close re-reading of Byungjin inscriptions of the Chungje Stele. By adjusting previous readings and newly deciphering some characters, updated interpretation became possible. The research re-examined the conclusion made few years ago from the analysis of Jungwon Inscription. Such efforts led to believe that the location area of the Chungje Stele was royal land, constantly from early 6th century to the end of 8th century. This was the distinct region distinguished from the typical county-prefecture system. Such outcome implies some important facts. The royal lands of Shilla were never succeeded to individuals, even when the monarchal blood was transformed to other families. In other words, royal lands belonged to the official position of ‘Shilla king', regardless of its individual heritage. This kind of system was already established from the early days when Shilla was structuring its local administration. The existence of ‘royal land' from the early 6th century is a significant factor when it comes to studying the characteristics of Shilla's ruling structure.

Byungjin Inscription of the Chungje Stele(菁堤碑 丙辰銘), Royal Land, county-prefecture system, Shilla king, ruling structure